“9 years” Bette answered proudly.

“Good, good.  Oh and listen, I hope I didn’t offend you.  Surely you know that Tina is a very beautiful woman.”  Candace said this hoping not to have put Bette off.

“Believe me, I know better than anyone.  And no, I’m not offended.  I’ve been witness to many, many men and women hitting on Tee.  I’ve gotten used to it by now.  I know I own her heart and soul and that’s what matters.  The rest can look all they want.  I’m sure you feel the same about Michaela.”

“God yes!”  Candace exclaimed.  “Michaela was a model, in fact, that’s how we met.  I was doing a photo shoot 8 years ago and I went ga-ga right away for her.  But she kept putting me off ‘cause she had photographers and designers after her all the time.  Finally I wore her down and she went out with me.  The rest they say is history.  But still people see her and stare or you can just see them trying to get as close as they can to her.  But like you said, I know where her heart lays so the rest is just background, you know?”

Bette agreed nodding.  “Is Michaela in town with you?”

“Yes, in fact, she’s at the hotel waiting for me.  I promised I’d take her out tonight.  Tina was kind enough to tell me where to find the best Thai in LA so I think that’s where we’re headed.”

Shaking her head and smiling, Bette said, “If anyone would know, it’d be my Tee.  Listen, why don’t you and Michaela come by our house for dinner before you leave town?  Or if you like we could go to my sister’s restaurant/nightclub.  It masquerades as a swanky coffee shop by day.”

Rising, Candace, extended her hand.  “That sounds nice Bette.  You have my cell phone number.  Why don’t you give me a call when you and Tina are free since our nights have been pretty much unoccupied?”

Bette stood and shook Candace’s hand, “Sounds like a plan.  I guess we can suffer together quietly while we watch the general public swoon over our wives.”  Then she said, “It was really nice finally meeting you Candace.  And thank you again for agreeing to release your photos to the CAC.  I guarantee you’ll be pleased with what I have in mind for them.”

Smiling Candace said, “I’m sure Bette.  I look forward to hearing from you.”

tbc